Manchester United resume their UEFA Champions League as they make the trip to Moscow to face CSKA Moscow.
Jose Mourinho’s side head into the fixture with an 8 game unbeaten streak. They’ll look to continue their form in the Champions League too, having beaten Basel 3-0 at home, a fortnight ago. CSKA too won their opening game against Benfica, coming from a goal down to beat the Portuguese side 2-1.
Manchester United are in second place in the Premier League, only behind City on goal difference. CSKA Moscow are in the fourth position and will look to get back to winning ways following a 0-0 draw with Dynamo Moscow on Saturday.
Manchester United have usually struggled against Russian opposition having won just one in the previous seven occasions, with that victory coming against CSKA Moscow in 2009.
In terms of absentees, Paul Pogba’s return might be delayed as reports suggest the Frenchman might have to undergo a surgery for his hamstring injury. Marouane Fellaini is out of action for a week at the very least after picking up a knock against Southampton. Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic still await their return to first-team football.
With that in mind, let’s see how Mourinho might set up his team in Moscow.
Goalkeeper:
David De Gea
The Spaniard will continue in goal for Manchester United after keeping yet another clean sheet against Southampton.
Defense:
Blind – Bailly – Jones – Valencia
The defence looks to be the same, with the exception of Daley Blind at LB in place of Ashley Young. The Dutchman might be useful in such away trips due to the stability he brings while in possession.
Midfield:
Herrera – Mata – Matic
The absence of Marouane Fellaini might mean the return of Ander Herrera in the first team. He would do well to slot in the midfield alongside Matic. Mata will be given the free attacking role of a #10.
Attack:
Martial – Lukaku – Mkhitaryan
Marcus Rashford was ineffective against Southampton bar an effort that just missed the post. Anthony Martial has been on the periphery of the United starting XI for quite some time now and might have to make the most of such opportunities.
Lukaku and Mkhitaryan have been mainstays in United’s attack and we can expect the two to feature against CSKA Moscow.
Here’s how they might line up.